iPhone X – Everything You Need To Know

iPhone X: Everything you need to know

It’s that time of year – Apple’s latest mind-blowing innovation in their long line of iPhones is upon us. It’s been 10 years since the first generation of iPhones took the world by storm and once again, the tech giants have released some top-of-the-line upgrades to the previous model. Here’s everything you need to know about the new iPhone.

Technology

Skipping the 9 altogether, the iPhone X was released on November 3rd worldwide and is considered the high end model of the latest line which includes the iPhone 8. Many of the showcased features are premium advanced tech and as such only available on the X.

Let’s have a look at some of the features available.

Face ID – the next step up from using your fingerprint to unlock your phone. This facial recognition system is intended to replace Touch ID, rather than add an additional layer of security. Using the camera to create an infrared 3D map of your face, Apple claim it is 20 times more secure than using your fingerprint. Early reports claim Face ID isn’t always perfect, but it works well as intended.

OLED display – Apple finally catch up with Samsung in the display tech race, as OLEDs themselves have become more efficient. The X’s display comes in at 5.8 inches and, like the Galaxy Note, runs from edge to edge.

Wireless charging – this is the first iPhone to implement what is becoming a popular method of phone powering. Unfortunately, none of the phones in this line come with their own charging kit, so this would have to be purchased separately.

UI changes – the ‘notch’ at the top of the screen takes some getting used to, but there are wallpapers out there that help cover it up by adding darkness to either side of it. The lack of a home button is also a drastic change, but the swipe-
centric UI feels natural and seamless.

Internal enhancements – Apple’s A11 Bionic processor, which is also used for the 8 and 8 Plus, ensures everything is super quick and runs smoothly. However, as expected, battery life is far from brilliant and the controversial decision to ditch the headphone port means AirPods are a necessity for private listening.

Software
With the upgrade to iOS 11, a slew of new software features are available. Animojis allow for a new dimension to the endlessly popular emojis, by tying them in with Face ID to provide animated icons for use in Messenger and elsewhere. The new Portrait mode provides artsy selfies in an instant, although Portrait Lighting needs a little work. Finally, the new firmware also carries a ton of augmented reality features, as well as the ability to edit Live Photos, configure storage space, and discourage phone use while driving.

Buying
Apple are selling the iPhone X through their online store and app, and mobile retailers offer the phone as pay-as-you-go and on contract, however expect supplies to be limited while hype levels are at their highest. Waiting times are expected to be around a month to six weeks in the UK. It’s also not cheap – the handset alone starts at £999 for the 64Gb model, and £1,499 for the 256Gb model.